Academy 18s recap: Rapids fall to Montreal Impact

The Colorado Rapids U-18 team kicked off the 2014 U.S. Soccer Development Academy Winter Showcase with a tough result, falling 3-0 to the Montreal Impact on Wednesday. Despite the result, Rapids midfielder Jacob Smits-Kagoshima, who is eligible to play for the U-16 team, put in a solid performance, creating several chances from center midfield and helping the Rapids control possession.

The Rapids got off to a slow start, conceding two goals within the first 10 minutes. It wasn’t until after Montreal found the net in the 2nd and 9th minutes that the Rapids were able to find some footing. They continued to improve throughout the first half, controlling the majority of possession and having several shots, one of which hit the post.

Unfortunately, the U-18s were unable to capitalize on their dominance, and Montreal sealed the victory with a penalty kick in the second half to deal the Rapids a 3-0 loss in their opening match of the Winter Showcase.

It's back to action for the Rapids on Thursday, when they face adidas Academy squad the Carolina Rapids at 10 a.m. ET, and they then close out the tournament on Saturday at 9 a.m. against Chivas USA. All matches are being played at the Premier Sports Complex near Bradenton, Fla., and will count towards each team’s Development Academy standings. The Rapids are now 4-5-5 and fell one spot to 9th in the Frontier Division (based on points per game).